Leadership Team

Leadership Team

Founder

Petunia Basetsana Koitsioe matriculated from Holy Family College in 2007. She then continued her undergraduate at Wits University, where she graduated with a BA in English literature and political science. Her passion for political science sparked her interest in philanthropy and community development. In 2011, Petunia was chosen as a leadership facilitator and presenter by the enke organisation based in South Africa, whose mission is to inspire young leaders to make their mark on their communities. It was this experience which inspired her to form the Girls To Be Known initiative, which later expanded into the Positive Youth Base organisation.

Operations and administration

Mathapelo Dikgale matriculated from Greenside High School in 2007. While in high school she participated in the school’s Rotary Interact Club which aroused her passion for charity work. She is presently completing a BA in Psychology at the University of South Africa. Mathapelo is articulate, creative and has immense organisational and presentation skills, which have been useful in her administrative position.

Communications

Thandeka Maqethuka matriculated from Mondeor High School in 2008. In high school she served as President of her school’s Rotary Interact Club as well as the Environment Club. Influenced by the activities of the Environment Club she entered the Eskom Expo for Young Scientist in 2008 where she won a bronze medal for her project on global warming. She is currently studying a BA in Communications Science through the University of South Africa.  With her experience in social and environmental issues and love for philanthropy, she contributed to the formation of Y + BASE. 

Human Resources and compliance

Xoliswa Mandy Nxumalo matriculated from Sir John Adamson in 2010. She is currently studying an LLB through the University of South Africa. Her key interests are soccer and debating, and while in high school she won provisional certificates for both. With her great ability to motivate others and multi task, she has proven to be an important asset to the organisation.

Finance and business development

Motshewa Khaiyane matriculated in 2008 from Mondeor High School. Her achievements include National science Olympiad from 2006-2008, full colours for Enviro Club and a Young Scientist, Energy Category Bronze medallist. Currently she is studying at the University of Johannesburg majoring in Psychology and communications. Motshewa’s work experience during the World Cup exposed her to working with people from different backgrounds making her an asset to the organisation as Y+Base is a team effort.